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Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll sway in the event of storms, and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let air and noise in which could increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and determination.
A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint can accumulate in the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it still jams it could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.
Another possible reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in the majority of cases.
If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window without having to take it off completely. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights that let cold air seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several options you can take to help prevent draughts in your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with usage.
Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that can be cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will need to be applied over the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to take off when you wish to open the window.
Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and could pose a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a general renovation it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair window. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be repaired to ensure high performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation, which can cause wood to rot.
The majority of problems with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult issue to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. While it is possible to Repair Double Glazing Windows damaged timber, the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.
First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife for removing them if they are fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window as well to make sure they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. You can replace the sashweights by new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging the wrong way.
Poor Security
Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and install prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. In time, this may result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced, a costly repair glass that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks under the window or the frame becoming soft to touch. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs to double glazing are necessary.
As time passes the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary resealing or replacement of sash window components.
It is a major concern when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens, the structural integrity may be in danger and the sash windows will need to be replaced.
A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be the result of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened and then the ratchets need to be reset.
This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that might be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and reduce the risk of draughts.